Dear Friends,
Recent studies on the future of languages indicate
that the status of English as a global language will eventually
peak and
suggest that the vision of English as the lingua franca of the
world is no longer realistic. To be sure, English is well established
and will continue to dominate scientific fields: 90% of their
journals are printed in English today. But, population growth
has been greater among speakers of languages other than English
and is expected to stay the course, thus ultimately creating
a “new linguistic order” in which monolingual speakers
may find it difficult to fully participate. Against such a background,
it is heartening to realize that more U.S. college students are
studying foreign languages than ever before. They seem to realize
the importance of bi- or multi-lingualism as we become a global
society. Despite the encouraging numbers, 1.4 million college
students studying foreign languages (the highest number recorded
since the Modern Language Association has compiled statistics),
it is necessary to point out that that represents only 8.7% of
all students enrolled in higher education. I am pleased to note
that Muhlenberg College students are among the 8.7% and thus
should be better prepared to lead a more enlightened and rewarding
life in the 21st Century. I hope you too will carpe diem and
make good use of the opportunity and challenge the study and
acquisition of foreign language skills affords. You will be well
served in the years ahead. Our newsletter attempts to give you
a glimpse of the benefits some of our students and faculty are
or have been reaping. Enjoy!